Is Your Home Ready For Summer?

Summer is almost here. It’s time to start planning pool parties and other outdoor activities but is your home ready for the higher temperatures. Before the summer heatwave arrives, there are a few things you want to check off your weekend to-do list.

Preparing for summer ahead of time can help lower your energy usage, so you aren’t hit with high utility bills.

Get Your Air Conditioner Ready

Almost everyone runs their air conditioner in the summer. It keeps your home at a comfortable temperature, but it also means higher electric bills. You can lower your cooling costs by getting you’re air conditioner ready for the summer heat.

Ideally, you are replacing your air filter every three to six months. If not, don’t worry. The start of summer is the perfect time to insert a fresh filter.

A new filter allows your air conditioner to function more efficiently.

You also want to clean off the outside unit. Leaves, dirt, and other debris can get into the fan and coils. When this happens, your air conditioner has to work harder to keep your home cool.

Spraying off these parts with a garden hose ensures your system is functioning optimally. It is also time to check the freon level and top it off if necessary.

Invest in Ceiling Fans

Some rooms get more traffic than others in the home. Areas like family rooms and kitchens are natural gathering places.

Installing a ceiling fan is a relatively inexpensive way to keep air constantly flowing in the space. Make sure the fan blades are rotating counter-clockwise. It will pull warm air towards the ceiling, keeping the room cooler.

In the winter, reverse the fan’s rotation to bring warm air down to your level.

Take a Look at Your Doors and Windows

One of the easiest ways to conserve energy in the summer is by keeping your doors and windows closed.

Even leaving the door ajar for a quick jog to the driveway mailbox can cause an increase in your cooling bill.

You also want to inspect the caulking around windowsills and doorframes. Replace any caulking that is missing, loose, or starting to break away. You might be surprised at the difference sealing air leaks can make in your energy costs.

It’s also a good idea to consider adding shades to the windows. The shades effectively block heat from the sun. The shades can have another bonus. Home projector owners will find it easier to enjoy movies during the day when they aren’t dealing with bright sunlight.

Set Your Thermostat

Where you set your thermostat affects your electric bill. Industry experts recommend setting the temperature around 78 degrees Fahrenheit and leaving it there throughout the summer.

Constantly adjusting the thermostat forces your air conditioner to work harder, costing you more money each month.

Programmable thermostats are surprisingly affordable. The device is also easy to install, though it is a good idea to contact a professional.

Don’t forget to turn the thermostat up when you’re not home. It’s a simple way to conserve energy and save money.

Consider Replacing Old Insulation 

Your home’s insulation can degrade over time. Older houses may also have ineffective or missing insulation.

Even newer model homes will benefit from an extra layer of insulation. Not only will it help keep your home cooler in the summer, but insulation also blocks cold, winter air from getting in.

Conclusion

Summertime is almost here, but is your home ready? Taking a few steps before the heat arrives is a great way to save money and stay comfortable. With the money you save on air conditioning, you might be able to take an extra summer vacation this year.